Key information
- Duration:
- 1 year full time, 2 years part time
- Start date:
- September 2025
- Apply by:
- 1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)
“The Law MA prepares you with the essential knowledge and skills for your journey to becoming a lawyer. Whatever you choose to use your degree for, the Law MA lays the foundations for you to succeed.”Patrick Rusk, Law MA graduate
Trainee solicitor, Burt Brill & Cardens
Are you a non-law graduate looking for a law conversion course to get up to speed with a range of legal concepts?
This course offers you the opportunity to gain a Masters in Law so you’re prepared for many different career options. Replacing the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)/Common Professional Examination (CPE), this degree focuses on the key areas of the law in England and Wales and provides a solid foundation for preparing for the first stage of the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE), or training for the Bar.
During your studies, you’ll develop legal awareness and have opportunities to take part in skills training – such as learning how to moot, interview clients and negotiate – while engaging in informed discussion of the law. You’ll also experience some of the approaches used in vocational legal training such as the SQE.
When you graduate, you’ll be prepared for a range of career options including:
- qualifying as a solicitor
- qualifying as a barrister
- undertaking legal research
- undertaking further study.
Accreditation
This course satisfies the academic component / GDL requirements of Bar training (subject to minimum pass marks and number of attempts). This degree acts as a gateway to further qualification as both a solicitor and a barrister. The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) must be taken by graduates wishing to become a solicitor.
- This course satisfies the academic component for BSB purposes (subject to minimum pass marks and number of attempts).
- This course satisfies the academic component for SRA purposes (subject to minimum pass marks and number of attempts).
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
Virtual Masters Open Day
Join us online to find out the essentials of Masters study.
Saturday 23 November, 10.30am - 2.30pm
Entry requirements
| Degree requirements | You should normally have a lower second-class (2.2) undergraduate honours degree or above. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
Please select your country from the list.
Argentina
| Degree requirements | Licenciado/Titulo with a minimum final mark of at least 6.0-7.0 depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Australia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Azerbaijan
| Degree requirements | Magistr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4 or 81% |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bahrain
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 2.5/4.0 (Grade C+). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bangladesh
| Degree requirements | A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.2/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brazil
| Degree requirements | Bacharel, Licenciado or professional title with a minimum final mark of at least 7. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brunei
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second class lower division or CGPA 2.7/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Canada
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 (grade B). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Chile
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 4.5-5.0/7 depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-70% depending on your university. Sussex uses Project 211/985 to inform offer levels. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Colombia
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with ‘Acreditacion de alta calidad’ and a minimum CGPA of 3.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree or Ptychion with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 7 (Fair Performance). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ecuador
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 15/20. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Egypt
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from a university with a minimum overall grade of at least 70%. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
| Degree requirements | Licence with mention assez bien or Maîtrise with a minimum final mark of at least 12. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree or Magister Artium with a minimum final mark of 2.7 or better. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ghana
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from a public university with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
| Degree requirements | Ptychion from an AEI with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 50-65% depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Indonesia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from an 'A' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 2.8/4.0. Bachelors degree from a 'B' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree (Licence or Karshenasi) with a minimum final mark of at least 14. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
| Degree requirements | Diploma di Laurea with a minimum overall mark of at least 101. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum C/GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Jordan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or 75%. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kazakhstan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of 3.75 or better (on a scale of 1-5)/CGPA 2,67. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kenya
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kuwait
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or B. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lebanon
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 or 13/20. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malawi
| Degree requirements | Masters degree, depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.7/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Mexico
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nepal
| Degree requirements | A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CGPA of at least 2.8-2.99/4.0, 3.0-3.49/5.0, or 4.0-4.6/7.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall grade of C. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Oman
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
| Degree requirements | Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Palestine
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum of at least 70% or CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Paraguay
| Degree requirements | Bachelors with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Peru
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 12/20 from a public university or 14/20 from a private university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Philippines
| Degree requirements | Masters degree with a minimum of 1.75/5.0 (where 1 is the highest) or 3.5/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Qatar
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall CPGA of at least 2.8 (on a scale of 4). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
| Degree requirements | Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Saudi Arabia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/5.0 or 2.8/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CAP 3.5. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (honours) degree with a minimum second-class division 2. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Korea
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.5 or 2.8/4.3 or B. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 2/4 or 6/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
| Degree requirements | Bachelors Special degree with a minimum lower second honours. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
| Degree requirements | Licence or Diplôme with a minimum 4.5/6 or 7/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Taiwan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-75% depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Thailand
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.5 -2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
| Degree requirements | Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.6 - 2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
United Arab Emirates
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or equivalent. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
USA
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Vietnam
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree (with a Graduate Thesis/research component) with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 7.0/10. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both proof of graduation in addition to your transcript. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zambia
| Degree requirements | Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0/2.5 or equivalent. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zimbabwe
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification can be in any subject. If you have a non-UK degree and intend to qualify as a barrister, you should also have a certificate of academic standing from the Bar Standards Board. |
|---|
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component).
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.
We do not accept IELTS Online.
Alternative English language qualifications
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test.
LanguageCert Academic SELT
Standard level (65 overall, including at least 60 in each component).
LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.
We do not accept the online version. We also do not accept the non-SELT version.
LanguageCert International ESOL SELT
International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component.
LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.
Pearson (PTE Academic)
Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills).
PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.
TOEFL (iBT)
Standard level (80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing).
TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.
The TOEFL Institution Code for the ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ« is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70%
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A - C in English language
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ«.
List of exempt countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- The British Overseas Territories
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
English language support
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a
Visas and immigration
Find out how to apply for a student visa
Admissions information for applicants
| How to apply | You will be able to apply from November 2024.
|
|---|---|
| Personal statement | Yes. You must submit a personal statement as part of your application. |
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.
Application deadlines
1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)
We strongly recommend an earlier application where possible, as some courses are in high demand and may close before the above dates. Find out more at How to apply for a Masters course
Modules
Full-time and part-time study
Choose to study this course full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. Modules for the full-time course are listed below. For details about the part-time course, contact us.
MA or Graduate Diploma?
If you wish to graduate with the MA, you start work on your dissertation in the spring term and submit it in the summer.
You also have the option to finish your degree before the summer with a Diploma, which will give you the same scope to proceed to the next stage of legal qualification as a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
Spring and summer teaching
Options
Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.
While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2025 for the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.
Why study a Law MA at the ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ«?
from on .
- Video transcript
[On-screen text: Why choose the Law MA?]
I chose to study the MA as I wanted to make a transition into Law and make a career change. The MA Law was a great opportunity for me to undertake a course in law that would give me a qualifying Law degree and allow me to make that career change.
So our Law MA at Sussex is a law conversion course for students who have a first degree in a different discipline, but who want to go on to qualify as solicitors or barristers.
[On-screen text: What sets Sussex apart?]
As opposed to other universities where you’ll have a more traditional conversion course, the MA Law at Sussex allows you to take optional modules to expand your legal knowledge into areas you would be more interested in, which align more with your career prospects.
Sussex offers a number of law skills competitions, and as someone who was thinking about a career in the Bar, I decided to take on mooting.
Mooting teaches you transferable skills. The key one will be time management and organisational skills, which you will need when managing cases down the line.
The students have a chance to write a dissertation in the summer, which gives them an opportunity to develop their interest in an area of Law that they find particularly interesting. One of the other things about Sussex that makes us special is the fact that we have some amazing experts amongst our teaching staff.
[On-screen text: Why did you choose Sussex?]
When I was looking around universities, one of the main things I wanted was the lifestyle that Brighton offers. That's why I picked Brighton and that's why I picked ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ«.
One thing that drew me to the course in particular was the fact that it was offered as a Masters rather than a Postgraduate Diploma, and that gave me the opportunity to do some of my own research and write a Masters dissertation.
I chose to study the MA Law because of the expertise of the faculty.
Looking back on the entire course, I learnt some really, really valuable and transferable skills that will stand me in good stead for a career at the Bar in the future.
If you can get through the MA Law in a year and excel, the world’s your oyster.
Our experts
I’m delighted to convene the Law MA course, and to work with a team of dedicated, inspiring and caring colleagues to deliver a first class learning experience.”Donald McGillivray
Professor of Environmental Law
Fees and scholarships
How much does it cost?
Fees
- Home students:
- £11,025 per year for full-time students
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £11,025 per year for full-time students
- International students:
- £22,575 per year for full-time students
If you study part time over two years, you’ll be charged 50% of the equivalent full-time fee in each year of study. Your second-year fee – if you continue your studies without a break – will be subject to a 3% increase (subject to rounding).
If you’re a self-funded international student, you’re required to pay a tuition fee deposit. Find out more about Masters tuition fee deposits
Additional costs
Note about additional costs
Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life.
Textbooks
The Law School provides online access to core texts for every module free of charge. However, you may choose to buy hard copies of some textbooks. The approximate cost of buying new copies of textbooks for all modules is £300.
Statute Books
You may find it useful to have a hard copy of a statute book for some modules. These cost around £15 each.
Law Society Membership
If you choose to become a Student Law Society member, annual membership costs £12. The Student Law Society runs optional events and trips four or five times a year. Costs vary but usually range between £5 and £40 per event.
Skills Competitions
For students who take part in optional skills competitions, most of the associated costs will be covered by the School. Students will need to cover some costs such as formal clothing and may need to cover printing costs when online bundles are not permitted. These costs will depend on the stage reached and whether it is an internal or external competition.
Law Ball
Tickets for the Annual Law Ball organised by the Student Law Society cost around £30. Attendance is optional.
Living costs
Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex
Find out about our terms and conditions
How can I fund my course?
Scholarships
Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.
Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26.
Working while you study
Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work
Careers
As a graduate, you can work towards qualifying as a law professional. You’ll also be well prepared for roles working in-house without qualifying in any particular jurisdiction, or to go on to further study.
Career paths may include:
- solicitor (Solicitors’ Qualifying Exam)
- barrister (Bar Professional Training Course)
- paralegal/legal executive
- in-house counsel
- judge
- legal researcher or librarian
- the Civil, Police or Probation Service
- local government.
Sussex finds that sweet spot between academic excellence and a friendly atmosphere. Talk to any member of the faculty, and you will be in no doubt that you’re talking to an expert in their field.”Patrick Rusk
Law MA graduate